Not only has “Blister in the Sun”—a decibel-alternating track off The Violent Femmes’ self-titled 1983 debut—survived as one of the most popular radio hits of the ’80s, it’s also become a commercial/television/film go-to:
1. My So-Called Life, 1995. In “Betrayal,” Angela Chase realizes she’s no longer in love with Jordan Catalano. Much dancing and singing ensues.
2. Grosse Point Blank, 1997. As if hitman John Cusack needed more bodies and beatings on his hands.
3. Sifl & Ollie, 1999. Episode 40, entitled “Chester’s Blanket-Fort Love Palace,” sees the spacey sock puppets going on. And on. And on.
4. Herr Lehmann, 2003. A German political dramedy about bohemians living amongst decay. Also prominently features “Novocaine for the Soul,” “I Will Survive” and
“Across the Universe.”
5. Mitsubishi commercial, 2003. A popular spot got big hands driving off-road Outlanders all over Australia.
6. Rock Star: INXS, 2005. Seventh-place finalist Jessica Robinson strutted her stuff but was ultimately eliminated three weeks later.
7. Wendy’s commercial, 2007. Apparently the advertising powers-that-be think it’s a good idea to equate the phrase “Blister in the Sun” with a bowl of chili.
8. What About Brian, 2007. What about killing this downward-spiraling trend already?
The Violent Femmes. July 27, 8 p.m., $20. Hard Rock Pool, 693-5000.